Richard R. (Rich) Dana – Bowman Funeral Directors

Richard R. “Rich” Dana

“After a good run of 78 years, I passed into the arms of our Lord after an 18-month battle with cancer. I sure can’t imagine anyone having a better life than I’ve had.
Born in Boise, and a 4th generation native from the North End, we spent many hours at places like Elm Grove Park, Lowell pool, Hamburger Corner and the foothills. What a great life!
In the mid-50’s and early 60’s we were cruisin’ downtown to Murray’s, the Arctic Circle, and Howdy Pardner Drive-In’s. Hot rods and early rock and roll…there was no better place to grow up. Weekends found us at the Fiesta, YWCA, Mira-Mar and Riverside ballrooms for the weekly hops.
I attended a number of Boise schools, my favorite being North Jr. High in the late 1950’s. After a hitch in the Army, I attended Boise Jr. College, and Boise State University, finishing with an MBA from one of the first graduating classes.
In 1964 I married Drue Hall, the superb mother of my sons Bob and Doug. Both have been a continual source of pride to me throughout my life.
Career wise, I spent 9 years with Intermountain Gas Co. and 30 years with Trus Joist. Many great times, memories and friendships came from my affiliation with both companies.
In 1985 I was very fortunate to meet and marry the love of my life, Tammy, whom I happened to meet at my dentist’s office. Shortly afterward, my work took us back east where we spent a number of years working hard and seeing the sights. She is my soulmate and best friend. I will miss her terribly.
Finally, I need to mention my beloved hiking and walking companion and best buddy – our miniature schnauzer, Nikki. Over the past 9 years and on a near daily basis, she and I have together covered over 5000 miles on the trails along the Boise Front. When it is her time she will spend eternity with Tammy and me.
I am survived by my wonderful wife Tammy, my sons Bob, Doug (Jessica) and fantastic grandson Brannon Sage. Also, my sisters Julia, Carol Lou, and brother Bob.”

Rich’s family would like to thank all of his friends who offered their love, friendship, and support, particularly over the last 18 months.
We would also like to thank Dr. Wilper at the VA and St. Luke’s Hospice Care for their excellent care.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10:00am to 12:00 pm on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 at Bowman Funeral Parlor, 10254 W. Carlton Bay Dr. in Garden City. A graveside service will follow at 2:00 pm at Dry Creek Cemetery, 9600 Hill Rd. in Boise.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Idaho Humane Society, 1300 S. Bird Street, Boise, ID 83709.

Arrangements are under the direction of Bowman Funeral Parlor of Garden City.

Condolences(12)

Gary Schweizer says
March 6, 2020 at 11:40 am

Tammi – I am so sorry for your loss … Rich and you have a special place in our hearts in Charlotte. Rich and I made a special team … he made the sales and deals, I got to service and engineer everything. Rich made work FUN. Who would ever forget Hurricane Hugo?
I trust that you will be comforted by knowing Rich’s spirit resides in many of us … may he enjoy Bear’s presence again.
Skip Eastman says
March 6, 2020 at 1:26 pm

Rich was one of my mentors and friends in the Trus Joist family. My deepest sympathy for your loss.
Mary says
March 6, 2020 at 1:38 pm

To the family, my heartfelt condolences for your loss. Please find comfort in the knowledge that God promises to end all suffering. Before long, God will wipe out every tear from our eyes, and “death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things (will) have passed away.”(Rev. 21:3,4). May this promise from God give you comfort now and a real hope for the future. My deepest sympathy.
John Treharne says
March 6, 2020 at 5:54 pm

Goodbye old friend. You were a true Gentleman Rich and I am honored to have had you for a friend. You were a class act right up till the end. The personal e-mail from you informing me of your passing was very personal. As you said my friend, I look forward to seeing you again when my time comes. You will be missed!
Mike McCollum says
March 6, 2020 at 8:12 pm

To the family and friends of Richie,

Richie was a good friend a tremendous mentor and a really good person. I had the opportunity to work with him for many years and I owe much of my career and much of the way I have lived my life to the things that I was able to learn from him.

We are taught that life here on earth is just a short moment in our true existence. I can only feel a small portion of what those much closer to him might be feeling, the sorrow may never completely go away. He made a big impact on so many for so many years. I can only hope that there will remain “just a bit” of Richie in all of us that will continue to shin through in our lives.

We will continue to hold Richie and his family in our thoughts and prayers.
- REPLY
  Doug Griffin says
  March 15, 2020 at 8:11 pm
  
  My deepest condolence to you Tammy and family. What a guy Rich was, not sure he could have an enemy in this world, just a nice pleasant person to talk and visit with. I saw him and Nikki several times out on their walk, what a partnership they had. Those of us in the car world certainly will miss Rich and his Corvette at the car shows.
Pat & RJ Randolph says
March 7, 2020 at 7:11 pm

RJ and I are so saddened to hear this unfortunate news. Rich will live forever in the memories and in the hearts whose lives have been touched by this very special person. Rich knew everything about the wood business and all the Marlton Associates learned so much from him. He was funny, a great person to work for and always called me “Kiddo”. We fondly remember his favorite place to eat, Tarantello’s Italian Restaurant in Medford, NJ, and the good company and food we shared there. Rich will never be forgotten. Tammy, we are praying for peace and comfort for you and all your family. Please accept our sincere condolences.
Karen Hyman says
March 10, 2020 at 11:55 pm

Well of course Rich would write his own obituary. I only wish I’d gotten him to write mine. All our love to you, Tammy. Being friends with you, Rich and Abby has been a highlight of our lives.
- REPLY
  Shirley Yeager says
  March 14, 2020 at 4:39 pm
  
  Cliff and I are so saddened by the lost of Rich.
  Our hearts and prayers go to Tam, Bob and Doug.
  There is much love and hugs that surround you now and forever.
Bob Austin says
March 11, 2020 at 4:26 pm

My condolences to the family of Rich. Rich will be missed at the weekly Tuesday gathering of Hot Rod Coffee. My growing up in Boise’s North end mirrors Rich’s memories almost to a T, all the same places and schools and later the places we hung out. We knew many of the same people, but I never connected with Rich until meeting him at Hot Rod Coffee. I helped him in aquisition of Boise High Couriers thru my sister’s estate sales. Rich, you will be missed by family anf many friends. Godspeed on your final journey.
JIM MCBATH says
March 13, 2020 at 7:49 pm

My deepest sympathy to you Tammy and family. Meeting Rich during all our car outings and breakfasts I will never forget.Was so glad he put his 58 Corvette in the Boise Roadster Show last year.Took a good picture or Rich and Tammy standing in front of the car. If I can be of any help during these times let me know. Jim.
Judi Kerestan says
March 18, 2020 at 4:54 pm

Rich , I have worked for you for 10 years and your sense of humor and upbeat personality always were a joy. I never met you in person , but always felt like I knew you. The fact that you had the prescence of mind to write your own goodbye , well that is just so Rich. It was beautiful and so well said . And I agree what a life..May God Bless and watch over your family and may you soar with the angels.

Richard R. (Rich) Dana June 2, 1941 - March 4, 2020

Condolences(12)

Gary Schweizer says

Skip Eastman says

Mary says

John Treharne says

Mike McCollum says

Doug Griffin says

Pat & RJ Randolph says

Karen Hyman says

Shirley Yeager says

Bob Austin says

JIM MCBATH says

Judi Kerestan says

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